Health Alert 8-16-12

August 16, 2012 - Health officials say West Nile Virus, which is the disease spread through infected mosquitoes, is on the rise around the country. Right now, at least 80 percent of the infections are in Mississippi, Oklahoma and Texas. Houston reported its first West Nile death this month. The CDC says it isn't clear why we're seeing more activity than in the last few years. This is the biggest spike since 2004, with at least 241 cases reported nationwide, including four deaths. According to the CDC, symptoms include fever, body aches, diarrhea, or rash. Fewer than one percent of patients develop a serious illness. There are no medications to treat West Nile, and no vaccines.

Also, if you own your home it could be better for your health. A new study published in the Annals of Allergy Asthma and Immunology finds that Americans are less likely to improve their home environment if they are renters. The study showed allergy sufferers who own their home are more likely to wear a mask while vacuuming, more likely to keep their pets out of their bedrooms, and more likely to get rid of carpeting to keep their homes dust free.

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